Nigeria’s carrier, Air Peace, has celebrated the arrival of its landmark dry-lease Boeing 737-NG.
The arrival resulted from a partnership between Air Peace and AerCap, a leading aircraft leasing company.
The arrival is a major step in strengthening Nigeria’s aviation capacity and global competitiveness after almost 20 years.
ThemomentNG reports that the aircraft was unveiled by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN), at the General Aviation Terminal one on Friday in Lagos.
At the event, Keyamo described the development as historic for Nigeria’s aviation industry.
He said that it showed the confidence of global partners in the nation’s air transport sector and private operators such as Air Peace.
“This partnership between Air Peace and AerCap is a testament to the credibility and operational excellence our local carriers are gradually building.
“It shows that Nigerian airlines can attract the confidence of world-class institutions in the global aviation value chain,” Keyamo said.
He added that the ministry remained committed to supporting Nigerian airlines through improved regulatory frameworks, bilateral air services agreements and targeted fiscal incentives to ensure sustainability in aviation business.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Dr Allen Onyema, described the development as a ‘bold leap’ in Nigeria’s aviation story.
He said that the dry-lease partnership with AerCap would allow Air Peace to maintain ownership and operational control of its aircraft while benefitting from AerCap’s technical expertise and fleet management support.
“This is not just about fleet expansion; it is about positioning Nigeria to compete globally.
‘We are proud to be partnering with AerCap, the world’s leading aircraft lessor, in a deal that signals trust, transparency and long-term vision,” Onyema said.
He said that the partnership would also help Air Peace to optimise routes, enhance maintenance standards, and improve passenger experience, especially across the airline’s growing intercontinental network.
Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe the Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Plc., which facilitated aspects of the financing structure, commended Air Peace for prudence and governance culture.
